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Robert Downey Jr explains "passable" Welsh accent in Dolittle

Photo credit: Universal
Photo credit: Universal

From Digital Spy

Dolittle can talk to the animals – even sing to the animals! – but Robert Downey Jr chose to do it all in a questionable accent for his new movie.

Robert's first big-screen outing since departing the MCU as Iron Man hasn't gone down well with either critics or cinema-goers, but for all of its faults, at least we know that Dolittle's experimental Welsh twang can be explained.

Appearing on tonight's (January 24) Graham Norton Show, RDJ revealed his inspiration for Dolittle's Welsh accent in the remake – admitting in the same breath that his attempt is merely "passable".

Photo credit: Universal
Photo credit: Universal

Related: Marvel was concerned Robert Downey Jr wasn't "family-friendly" enough for Iron Man role

"It's a passable Welsh accent, which is good for me," the actor conceded, before saying he wanted to separate his latest role from his performances in Sherlock Holmes and Chaplin.

"I wanted to do something different after Sherlock and Chaplin and I'd read about this nutty doctor from the 19th century, Dr Price, so I based my character on him."

Unfortunately for Downey Jr, and the ghost of Dr Price, Dolittle isn't landing with audiences after receiving a critical mauling in first reviews.

Photo credit: Universal
Photo credit: Universal

Earlier this week, the movie's box office earnings were languishing at $57 million, and while a massive number on its own terms, Dolittle's takings are almost $120 million shy of its production budget.

What's 'ouch' in parrot?

The Graham Norton Show, featuring Downey Jr, Emma Thompson, Hugh Laurie, Terry Gilliam, and Sara Bareilles, airs tonight at 10.35pm on BBC One.


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